Postdoctoral Research Associate - School of Data Science

The University of Virginia’s School of Data Science invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to join the newly established National Security Data and Policy Institute. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to high-impact, interdisciplinary research at the intersection of network science, global research competitiveness, and generative AI capabilities.

The successful candidate will work closely with Dr. Michael Porter and collaborate with faculty, research staff, and students on projects focused on:

• Estimating and predicting the global competitiveness of national research infrastructures
• Evaluating the evolution of Generative AI performance over time and across tasks
• Analyzing international AI models and their representations of the U.S. in global discourse

We seek applicants who are eager to push the boundaries of data science, artificial intelligence, and network modeling to address real-world policy challenges.

Key Responsibilities:

The Postdoctoral Research Associate will:

• Conduct original research in data science, network science, and AI
• Train and supervise graduate and undergraduate student researchers
• Contribute to and co-author academic publications, conference presentations, and policy white papers
• Develop and implement data analysis pipelines for large-scale datasets
• Present research findings at conferences and professional meetings
• Collaborate with leading researchers within and outside UVA

Qualifications:

• U.S. citizenship required
• Ph.D. in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Network Science, Physics, Engineering, Sociology, Economics, or a related field, earned within the past six years
• Strong computational and statistical skills
• Experience with large-scale data analysis and machine learning
• Proficiency in scientific programming (e.g., Python, R, Julia)
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills
• A demonstrated ability to produce high-quality, peer-reviewed research

Position Details:

This position will remain open until filled. This is a full-time in-person position at the School of Data Science at the University of Virginia. The initial appointment is for one year; however, the appointment may be renewed for an additional year contingent upon funding and satisfactory performance. This is an exempt level, benefited position. The selected applicant will be required to complete a background check prior to their first day of employment per University Policy. This position will not sponsor for work visas.

Why Join Us?

This postdoctoral position offers a collaborative and dynamic research environment at one of the leading schools of Data Science and AI research. UVA’s National Security Data and Policy Institute provides unparalleled opportunities to engage with top researchers, contribute to policy-relevant work, and make an impact in the fields of AI, national security, and global research innovation.

We encourage applications from candidates eager to advance data-driven insights into global research competitiveness, AI systems, and network science.

Anticipated hiring range: $60K

Benefits Include: The choice between 3 different health plans; vision and dental insurance; life insurance; benefits savings accounts; starting with 22 days of paid time off a year in addition to 12 or more paid holidays; 8 weeks of paid parental leave; short term disability; up to $4,360 after your first year for combined use of tuition toward a degree-seeking program or up to

$2,000 for professional development including classes, certification training and conferences; and more!

TO APPLY

Please apply through Careers at UVA , and search for R0070984.

Complete an application online and attach:

Cover letter to include your interest in the position and your knowledge, skills, abilities, and experiences Resume or CV

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